A Guide to Selecting the Best Water Heaters
Types of Water Heaters
When it comes to choosing a water heater, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is what type of water heater is best for your home. There are several options to choose from, each with its own set of pros and cons.
The most common types of water heaters are tank-style and tankless water heaters. Tank-style water heaters store a certain amount of water in a tank, and use heating elements to keep the water hot. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, heat water on demand, without the use of a tank.
Other options include solar water heaters, which use the sun's energy to heat water, and heat pump water heaters, which use electricity to move heat from the air or ground to heat water.
Fuel Source
Another important consideration when choosing a water heater is the fuel source. Tank-style and tankless water heaters can be powered by electricity, natural gas, propane, or oil. Solar water heaters, as the name suggests, use the sun's energy to heat water. And heat pump water heaters can be powered by electricity.
Each fuel source has its own advantages and disadvantages. Natural gas and propane are typically the most cost-effective options, but not all homes have access to these fuel sources. Electric water heaters are more commonly found in homes, but they tend to be more expensive to operate. Solar water heaters are a good option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint, but they can be expensive to install and may not be suitable for all climates.
Capacity
When choosing a water heater, it's important to consider the capacity you'll need to meet your hot water demands. Tank-style water heaters are available in a range of sizes, from small 30-gallon models to larger 80-gallon models. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, are available in a range of flow rates, which measure how much hot water they can produce in a minute.
To determine the right size water heater for your home, consider the number of people in your household and the fixtures and appliances that use hot water, such as the shower, dishwasher, and washing machine. It's also a good idea to consider any future needs, such as plans to add a bathroom or an additional person to your household.
Efficiency
When it comes to operating costs, water heaters can be a significant expense. That's why it's important to consider the efficiency of the water heater you choose. Most water heaters are required to have an Energy Factor (EF) rating, which measures the water heater's overall efficiency. The higher the EF rating, the more efficient the water heater.
Tankless water heaters, heat pump water heaters, and solar water heaters are generally more efficient than tank-style water heaters. And among these types, heat pump water heaters are typically the most efficient.
Conclusion
Choosing the right water heater for your home can be a complex decision. But by considering the type of water heater, fuel source, capacity, and efficiency, you can select a water heater that will meet your hot water needs and save you money on operating costs.